Sad passing of a Scottish cornet legend

The Scottish Brass Band Association is saddened to learn of the death of Tony Clucas, legendary soloist and conductor, who died peacefully last Tuesday (24 March) following a short stay in hospital after contracting pneumonia. He was 97 years old.

Tony was recognised as one of the finest cornet soloists of his time. Growing up in Glasgow, he was originally taught clarinet by his father before transferring onto cornet on which he flourished.

He gained a fine reputation as a soloist with Clydebank Burgh Band, the premier band in Scotland at the time, and was recorded on disc and participated in radio broadcasts. He was also invited to play in summer season concerts in London parks in the early 1950s.  

After a stint with the Royal Artillery Band as part of National Service, he was invited to audition for the famous Black Dyke Band, but turned it down for personal reasons, deciding to stay in Scotland where he cemented his reputation as player, conductor and adjudicator with the Clydebank Burgh Band.

Tony worked with the Greenock & District (later the Inverclyde District) Band for seven years during the 1970s. He also had a meritorious record of 20 years service conducting and being associated with Broxburn Public Band, helping it to grow in status, reputation and contest success.

He was presented with his life membership medal from the Scottish Brass Band Association for continuous service to the movement from 1940 to 1990 at the band’s centennial celebrations.

Tony finished his playing career with Broxburn, having played at three National Finals and in the Championship in Scotland when he was in his 80s. He was a versatile instrumentalist and played trumpet in orchestras and in pit orchestras for many shows in and around Glasgow.

He will be remembered fondly by his family, friends and the banding fraternity as a mentor, teacher, conductor and a great player. His funeral will take place at 2.30pm on Wednesday 8 April at the Livingston Crematorium.